Oct 27th 2026
My name is Emma Beardsley. I’m 48 and live in Amesbury. In November 2023 my life changed in a second. Whilst doing my regular checks I found a lump.
My GP sent me to the Stars Appeal Breast Unit. I thought it was just routine, nothing to worry about. Walking into the unit doesn’t feel like a hospital at all. It’s such a fantastic, friendly, and welcoming place.
I had a mammogram, then an ultrasound. They seemed to be doing a lot of measurements and checks. I thought something’s not quite right here. I had biopsies taken and was asked to wait to see the consultant.
I got called in and sat on the couch. The consultant said she was concerned it was breast cancer. As I walked to the car I thought how am I going to tell my parents, my son and my sister? I was in a state of shock.
The biopsy results confirmed it was breast cancer. I had my first operation at the end of November to remove the lump, and another surgery in January 2024. That period was a whirlwind.
In February I met my oncologist to find out what was next. That appointment was the hardest. I was told I would need seven rounds of chemotherapy, 10 sessions of radiotherapy and 18 rounds of antibody treatment.
It was difficult to process all the information; it was so overwhelming. I thought how am I going to do this? I started chemotherapy. I didn’t know what to expect but the nurses on the Pembroke Suite made a really horrible experience so much better.
The Stars Appeal does so much to help patients on the Pembroke Suite. They provide extra equipment, comfy recliner chairs, and even snacks and biscuits, and hot and cold drinks.
The charity’s free Wi-Fi was an absolute bonus. I could FaceTime my sister for a quick chat, which helped take my mind off my treatment.
During my chemotherapy I met the brilliant Shelley, the Stars Appeal Aromatherapist. She noticed that I was crying and asked if I was ok and offered me a foot massage. That day I felt at my lowest point, but Shelley was very kind, and the massage was so calming. It made me focus on the smells of the aromatherapy oils and forget where I was.
All these things took the stress out of being in hospital and I’ve now finished my treatment, returned to work full-time as a civil servant and I’m feeling good.
The Breast Unit, Pembroke Suite, Oncology Department and the Stars Appeal got me through last year. The extras provided by the Stars Appeal are incredible and helped me to keep being me. Thank you to everyone who supports the charity!